To graduate from WKU I had to complete a capstone project. I chose to create a short documentary on coal miners. I am from a coal community in western Kentucky and have always wanted to do a project that reflected my upbringing. The result was "At the Heart of It" which you can view here.

This project is the culmination of my four years at Western and I can honestly say I used nearly every skill in my toolbox to complete this project. Through a mountain of stress I relied on my knowledge, network of support and hard work to get me through this process. Looking back, I cannot believe how much I have learned at Western and am so thankful to everyone along the way that helped me grow as a photojournalist and person.

I cannot explain how blessed I feel to have the opportunity to go to college. Both of my parents have associates degrees, but I am the first in my family to attend a traditional four-year college. I have worked very hard to get to where I am in life but I would be nothing without my support network at home. My community has always encouraged me to be my best and make something of myself. This project is a reflection of my love for the people of Union County.

The capstone process taught me so much about long term, thorough projects. It tested my limits and pushed me to push myself toward an ever-increasing goal. At times I felt like my goal was out of reach, but with persistence and patience my idea came to fruition.